Pauline epistles

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Divi Pauli Apostoli epistolae by Ulrich Zwingli, Einsiedeln 1517, Zentralbibliothek Zürich, RP 15

Pauline epistles, also known as the Pauline letters, are a group of thirteen New Testament books that are attributed to Paul the Apostle. These letters are considered essential texts within Christianity, providing theological content, pastoral guidance, and church instruction. They are among the oldest Christian documents, written approximately between AD 50 and 67. The Pauline epistles are central to Christian theology and ethics, addressing issues such as the nature of Jesus Christ, salvation, and the role of the church.

Composition and Authorship

The Pauline corpus is traditionally divided into the Homologoumena, letters universally accepted as genuine, and the Antilegomena, letters whose authenticity has been disputed. The undisputed letters include Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, and Philemon. The disputed letters, which some scholars believe may have been written by Paul's followers, include Ephesians, Colossians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, and Titus. The authorship of Hebrews has historically been attributed to Paul, but most modern scholars reject Pauline authorship.

Themes and Content

The Pauline epistles cover a wide range of topics, but central themes include the death and resurrection of Jesus, justification by faith, the role of the Law, and the Second Coming of Christ. Paul's theology of the Cross and grace has been particularly influential, emphasizing salvation as a gift from God accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. His letters also address practical and ethical issues facing early Christian communities, such as sexual morality, idolatry, and the use of spiritual gifts.

Impact and Legacy

The Pauline epistles have had a profound impact on Christian theology and practice. They have been pivotal in the development of key Christian doctrines, such as justification by faith alone and the Trinity. Throughout history, Paul's letters have influenced theologians, reformers, and scholars, shaping the course of Christian thought and debate. They continue to be a subject of academic study and are frequently cited in Christian preaching and teaching.

Canonical Status

The inclusion of the Pauline epistles in the New Testament canon was largely uncontested by the early church. By the end of the 2nd century, these letters were widely recognized and circulated among Christian communities as authoritative texts. Their canonical status was affirmed by various church councils and they have been part of the Bible used by Christians of various denominations ever since.

See Also

• Apostolic Fathers
• New Testament apocrypha
• Epistle
• Canonical gospels